Gwendolyn Horde

Gwendolyn "Gwen" Horde, a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering love for her family, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 85 on Friday March 27. Born on January 20, 1941, in Houston, Texas, Gwen was the beloved daughter of Sam and Lucille Anderson and loving sister "baby sister", Marian Foreman.

At a young age, Gwen's journey led her to California, where she attended Stege Elementary School in Richmond and later Mission High School in San Francisco. It was in 1961, on a blind date that would change her life forever, that she met the love of her life, Shadrach Lee Horde. Just three months later, they were married on June 11, 1961, beginning a beautiful union that would span 50 years until his passing in 2011. Among her most treasured memories was the celebration of her 50th wedding anniversary—a beautiful reflection of a life built on love, commitment, and faith.

Gwen was a loving and dedicated mother to her three children: DeWayne Andre Horde, Tonia Lee Horde-Abraham, and Shawna Marie Horde-Anderson. Her family was her greatest joy. She poured her heart into creating a home that Shadrach built in Kenwood, CA in 1972 and filled it with warmth, delicious food, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Gwen was a woman of many talents and passions. She found joy in baking, cooking, crocheting, knitting, ceramics, gardening, and shopping. She had a special gift for bringing people together and was known for her exceptional hospitality and love of entertaining. Whether hosting family gatherings or celebrating life's milestones, Gwen made every occasion feel meaningful and full of love.

A devoted fan of the Golden State Warriors since 1975, Gwen also enjoyed bowling, dancing, camping, and cruising with her husband and family. In quieter moments, she delighted in watching her favorite shows, including Dancing with the Stars, Survivor, and Family Feud. With her signature humor, she often said, "Ain't no point in me lying!"—a reflection of her honesty and vibrant personality.

In 1975, Gwen gave her life to Christ, anchoring her life in faith and carrying that foundation with quiet strength and conviction. Her faith sustained her through life's joys and challenges alike. Her gift made room for her at her church, Faith Worship Center, where she served on the Hospitality Committee. One of her greatest blessings was providing baked goods each Sunday for the church café.

A true overcomer, Gwen was an eight-year breast cancer survivor and later faced additional health challenges with courage, including COPD and most recently Stage IV lung cancer. Through it all, she remained resilient, graceful, and deeply rooted in love.

We rejoice that Gwen is with Jesus and reunited with the love of her life, her son, and other cherished family members. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, faith, and family. Those include her sister Marian Foreman, daughter Toni Horde-Abraham, daughter Shawna (Rogers) Anderson, brother-in-law Terry (Andrea) Horde, sister-in-law Jewel Horde, grandsons Joseph Evans (Nadine), Eugene (Melissa) Anderson, great grandchildren Zoe and Avianna Anderson and Joseph James Evans, Jr. and a host of family and friends who were blessed to know her and will miss her deeply along with her trusty companion, "Sassy"!